Behind the Scenes: My Design Process from First Call to Launch

Every great website starts with one thing — a conversation. ☕

At D-S-Design Studio, my process is built around clarity, collaboration, and intention from day one. I don’t just design websites. I create digital experiences that reflect your brand, support your goals, and grow with your business.

Here’s a look behind the scenes at how a project moves from first call to launch.

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Step one: discovery and strategy

Every project begins with a discovery call.

This is where I get to know you, your business, and what you actually need your website to do. We talk through your goals, your audience, what’s working well already, and where things may be falling short.

Together, we define what success looks like.

From there, I create a clear project roadmap outlining structure, timelines, and next steps, so you always know what’s happening and when. No guesswork. No confusion.

This stage sets the foundation for everything that follows.

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Step two: content and structure

Once the direction is clear, we move into planning the structure of your site.

Using sitemaps and wireframes, I map out every page and section to ensure your content flows logically and users can navigate naturally. This helps avoid clutter, confusion, and missed opportunities.

Whether you already have written content or need support refining it, I help shape your messaging with clarity, tone, and SEO in mind. Great design starts with strong words, and this stage ensures your site communicates clearly from the outset.

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Step three: design and visual identity

This is where everything starts to come together. 🎨

Using your brand identity, colour palette, typography and imagery, I design a visual system that feels considered, cohesive, and true to your business.

Every design choice has a purpose — from spacing and hierarchy to layout and interaction. The goal is to create a website that feels easy to use, visually confident, and aligned with your brand values.

You’ll receive design previews along the way, with space for feedback and refinement. The process is always collaborative.

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Step four: build and testing

Once the design is approved, the build phase begins.

I develop your website using a clean, responsive structure that performs smoothly across all devices. Mobile responsiveness, page speed, accessibility, and SEO foundations are all built in from the start.

Before launch, I test thoroughly across browsers and screen sizes, check every link, optimise performance, and ensure everything works exactly as it should.

This stage ensures your site is not just visually strong, but technically reliable too.

👉 Learn more about my Website design services here.

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Step five: launch and ongoing support

Launch day is exciting — but it’s not the end. 🚀

Once your site goes live, I provide training so you feel confident updating content through your CMS. You’ll know how to make changes without breaking anything or feeling stuck.

If you’d rather not manage updates yourself, I also offer ongoing support through structured care plans. These keep your site secure, fast, and up to date long after launch.

👉 Learn about ongoing Website Maintenance Plans after your launch.

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Why this process works

This approach works because it’s built on communication, transparency, and care.

Every project is treated as a partnership, not a transaction. By the time your site launches, it feels like a genuine extension of your business — not just something that looks nice online.

Whether you’re launching a new brand, refreshing an existing site, or investing in something more strategic, this process ensures nothing is rushed and nothing is overlooked.

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Ready to bring your vision to life?

If you’re looking for a web designer who values structure, clarity, and long-term thinking, I’d love to chat.

👉 Get in touch with D-S-Design Studio

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Based in Shaftesbury, Dorset — working with businesses across the South West and beyond.

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